Blog : Integrated Fitness' Sustainability is About More Than Just Exercise

Integrated Fitness is all about whole-body sustainability – from nutrition education to its popular Weight Loss Challenge program, and community giveback. But the local fitness center makes environmentally conscious decisions in each aspect of its operations both big and small.

For its facility on Dover Point Road in Dover, Integrated Fitness purchases repurposed second-hand fitness equipment, their gym and yoga mats are made with recycled materials, CFL lighting is used in the offices, much of their client billing is done electronically, the location is heated with natural gas, and Integrated Fitness uses recycled paper products for printed materials. Traditional membership gyms typically use harsh chemicals to clean equipment, and often use paper towels to wipe down mats and seats. Integrated Fitness, which is not a membership gym, hired a green cleaning company to service their facility once a week. The cleaning company uses eco-friendly products that are just as effective as traditional cleaning products, but reduces clients' exposure to harmful chemicals.

Pursuing sustainable, eco-friendly initiatives helps Integrated Fitness reduce its carbon footprint and provides clients with a sense of comfort during their sessions with trainers. Founder Jon Arnold works with clients to help them lose weight, build muscle, eat healthier and meet personal goals for a more balanced lifestyle. To lead these comprehensive, and sometimes rigorous, classes, Integrated Fitness's trainers are specially certified to help clients reach their individual health goals.

In addition to Jon's expertise, Integrated Fitness has four personal trainers and two group exercise instructors on staff for private, one-on-one training, as well as group sessions that include the Weight Loss Challenge program, Strength Training classes and more. And the trainers at Integrated Fitness go beyond just the physical workout at the studio, with one-on-one nutrition consulting and a nutrition class as part of the Weight Loss Challenge program.

During Integrated Fitness's first year, Jon said he would've been happy if he booked 20 - 30 client hours. Fours years later, Integrated Fitness had 80 - 90 client hours, and those numbers rose steadily to 110 in 2015. That much growth in such a short period of time leaves Jon feeling optimistic about how people think of their health, as well as Integrated Fitness's growth. "We hope to make it to 140-150 by the end of the year," he said. "That's a good goal."

Green Alliance Members 10% off when you sign up for the Weight Loss Challenge. The next Weight Loss Challenge starts Monday, June 29. Not a member? Join here!